An Aimpoint can be left on for around 5 years straight before a battery change is needed.

Agreed and the EoTech is highly efficient on battery usage, though not as stingy as the Aimpoint. The EoTech I have, had the same batteries for over 3 years of off and on usage before I replaced them out of paranoia.

The battery life of the Aimpoint (ACOG being a different ballpark as well) is one of the most amazing things in modern optics. To know that you have a couple years of running time before you even have to think about finding a back-up is just awesome.

Yes, and that's the best way to go IMO. It's almost like a constant verification that your shot is going where you want it to. I LOVE The Red-Dot sights, but I make damn sure I can shoot w/ irons just as well.

I've know guys to shoot ARs out quite a bit further than a 1x will allow. Don't forget that one of the major uses for the .223 is varminting, which requires shooting well beyond 300yds.

What's the deal w/ everyone wanting Smith and Wesson M&Ps lately??? There are more economical options available, but to each their own.

Yeah but the AR can do much more than varmit hunting. Just look at all the wars the U.S. has been in with this weapon!